Kent County Council is warning that the severe cold weather and icy conditions currently affecting the county are now forecast to last well into next week.
Residents are being urged to continue following simple steps to help vulnerable families, friends and neighbours stay safe.
If you need NHS help this winter and aren’t sure where to go, visit www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk
Kent County Council (KCC) Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Ellen Schwartz, said: “Cold weather increases the risks of a range of illnesses including heart attacks, strokes and flu – but people with underlying health problems, such as the elderly and frail, are particularly at risk.
“That’s why it is vital that during this prolonged period of severe cold weather people keep themselves, and their homes, warm – even if this is just by heating the bedroom and living room.
“Please also look after vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, and assist your local community. Taking steps to stay warm and work with others can make a life-changing difference.”
TOP TIPS FOR KEEPING SAFE AND WELL IN SEVERE COLD WEATHER
Keeping your home warm, efficient and safe:
- Try to heat the rooms you use to at least 18°C if you can, as this reduces the risk to health of someone wearing suitable winter clothing.
- Overnight, people who are 65 and over or who have pre-existing health conditions, may find bedroom temperatures of at least 18°C are good for their health; this may be less important if you are a healthy adult under 65 and have appropriate clothing and bedding.
- If you can’t heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to sleep.
- Get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated.
- If you have an electric blanket, use it as instructed and get it tested every three years. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket.
- Do not use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning which can kill.
- If you are not on mains gas or electricity, make sure you have a good supply of heating oil, LPG or solid fuel so you do not run out in winter.
If you need to go out:
- Wear shoes with slip resistant, good grip soles.
- Make sure you are not caught out by snow and ice; stay tuned to the weather forecast and plan ahead with food supplies.
- In periods of severe weather such as snow and ice, do not travel unless necessary. Get up-to-date traffic information at info
- People are urged not to go to A&E or call 999 unless it’s an emergency. If you are in any doubt, NHS111 can help you get the right treatment.
Look after yourself:
- Sitting or sleeping in a cold room is not good for you and increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and breathing problems.
- Keep your bedroom windows closed on a winter’s night; breathing cold air can increase the risk of chest infections.
- Exercise is good for you all year round and it can keep you warm in winter.
- Keep moving if you can, this will help keep you warm. Try not to sit for more than an hour, get up and walk around, make a hot drink and spread housework throughout the day.
- Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer; this will trap the heat better to keep you warm. Thin layers of clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres are particularly good for maintaining body heat.
- Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls. Make sure you have spare medication in case you are unable to go out.
- Food is a vital source of energy and helps to keep your body warm so have plenty of hot food and drinks.
- Aim to include five daily portions of fruit and vegetables. Tinned and frozen vegetables count towards your five a day.
- Prepare for cold weather. Stock up on tinned and frozen foods, warm clothes and any medication so you don’t have to go out too much when it’s cold or icy.
- Power and utility companies have schemes which make at-risk groups a priority for reconnection following power cuts. Find out if you meet the criteria and if so, sign up. Visit https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/consumers/household-gas-and-electricity-guide/extra-help-energy-services/priority-services-register-people-needfor more information
Keep the warmth in by:
- Fitting draught proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors.
- Making sure you have loft insulation. And if you have cavity walls, make sure they are insulated too.
- Insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes.
- Draw your curtains at dusk and tuck behind radiators to help keep heat inside.
- Make sure your radiators are not obstructed by furniture or curtains.
Get financial help:
- There are grants, benefits and advice to help make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. It’s worthwhile claiming all the benefits you are entitled to before winter sets in.
- For advice on energy bills and energy efficiency, contact Simple Energy Advice: 0800 444202/ https://www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk/
- Find your way through to the cost of living support available with Kent Together at gov.uk/kenttogether